Corticosteroid production by fetal rat hippocampal neurons

MacKenzie, S.M. , Clark, C.J., Ingram, M.C., Lai, M., Seckl, J., Gomez-Sanchez, C.E., Fraser, R., Connell, J.M.C. and Davies, E. (2000) Corticosteroid production by fetal rat hippocampal neurons. Endocrine Research, 26(4), pp. 531-535. (doi: 10.3109/07435800009048566) (PMID:11196425)

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Abstract

11β-hydroxylase and aldosterone synthase catalyse the final stages of corticosterone and aldosterone synthesis respectively. Previously, we established that they are expressed in the rat brain, particularly the cerebellum and the hippocampus. Primary cultures of fetal rat neurons were studied. RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry established that neurons express 11β -hydroxylase and aldosterone synthase mRNAs and protein. After incubating the cells with 10μM DOC for 24 hours, medium was analysed for aldosterone and corticosterone. Median % conversion of DOC to corticosterone was 7.6% compared to 0.4% in controls. Median % conversion of DOC to aldosterone was 6.2% compared to 0.06% in controls. Corticosteroids mediate a number of functions of mammalian brain, including blood pressure homeostasis, salt appetite and neuronal excitability. Local production of these steroids could have significant effects on these processes.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Davies, Professor Eleanor and Connell, Professor John and MacKenzie, Dr Scott
Authors: MacKenzie, S.M., Clark, C.J., Ingram, M.C., Lai, M., Seckl, J., Gomez-Sanchez, C.E., Fraser, R., Connell, J.M.C., and Davies, E.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences
College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health
Journal Name:Endocrine Research
Publisher:Marcel Dekker
ISSN:0743-5800
ISSN (Online):1532-4206

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